The ISO 9001 certification is a quality management system which sets the standards for organizations to ensure that they are able to meet their customers and stakeholders’ requirements which are related to their products or services. The ISO 9001 comprises of the seven quality management principles and the requirements which businesses that wished to meet the standard must fulfill.
In order for the certification body to issue or renew the certificate it is important that the auditor must be completely satisfied after they have assessed the company and seen that they are implementing all the requirements present in the sections 4 to 10.
It is important for the organizations to carry out documentations for any procedures which are required in order to make its operation more effective.
In order to receive standardization it is necessary for the organization to come up with a documented quality policy which deals with their quality management system and their objectives. They are required to assess the risks and opportunities and also determine the issues which would be relevant and which would help them decide upon a strategic direction.
Few countries have accredited bodies which authorize the certification bodies. Both of these charge fees separately. There is a mutual agreement between both that the certificate issued by one of the accredited certification bodies are accepted all over the world.
How an organization is audited for ISO 9001 certification
The organization is audited on the samples of it sites, functions, its products and services and all the processes which are rendered to bring those products and services into existence. The auditor would be on the lookout for problems like nonconformities or any opportunities for improvement in the management system. When they find that there are no major nonconformities they are issued the certificate. On the other hand if there is room for improvement the organization would have to present an improvement plan to the certification body. Once the certification body is satisfied that the organization is carrying out the right quality management system they would issue the certificate.
It should be kept in mind that the ISO certificate is not a just one time award but it has to be renewed at regular intervals. That should be done at least once every three years. The certification has no grades except the fact that the company is either certified or it is not.
Advantages of 9001 certification
- Business or organization are able to work on their business objectives and identify any new business opportunities.
- They are able to identify and assess the risks which are associated with their business
- It can enhance the customer satisfaction by putting their customers’ needs first and consistently meeting the customers’ criteria.
- Improve the overall efficiency of the business because all the processes are aligned and understood by all of the employees.
- The businesses are able to expand into new markets and sectors because of the ISO 9001 certification. It opens new avenues for them and provides them with opportunities at working on an overseas level.